流通两个多世纪 一美分硬币为何停产

Core Viewpoint - The U.S. Mint has announced the cessation of the production of the one-cent coin, marking the end of its regular production after 232 years due to high production costs exceeding its face value [1][2]. Reasons for Cessation - The production cost of a one-cent coin has risen significantly, from 1.42 cents to 3.69 cents over the past decade, leading to substantial financial losses for the Mint [1][2]. - The one-cent coin was first introduced in 1793 and has become increasingly obsolete, often found in piggy banks rather than in circulation [1]. Current Circulation of One-Cent Coins - Approximately 300 billion one-cent coins are currently in circulation, far exceeding commercial demand, and they will remain legal tender despite the halt in production [3][4]. - The Federal Reserve has already suspended orders for one-cent coins at 100 of its 181 distribution points, with more expected to follow [3]. Impact on Banking and Retail - The American Bankers Association has indicated that the Federal Reserve will no longer accept deposits of one-cent coins once they are depleted from distribution points, complicating their circulation [3]. - Retailers are encouraged to help mitigate the slowdown in circulation by accepting one-cent coins and advising customers to bring them to banks or exchange kiosks [3]. Future of Other Low-Denomination Coins - There is ongoing discussion about the potential for other low-denomination coins, such as the five-cent coin, to face similar fates due to high production costs [5][6]. - A proposed bill to establish a national rounding standard for cash transactions is currently stalled in Congress, which could impact how cash transactions are handled in the absence of one-cent coins [5][6].